BMW 2-Series Coupe, 2014

 

 

 

•  BMW 2-Series Coupe, 2014

There is clear water between the BMW 2-Series Coupe and the BMW 1-Series, the new model assuming a character all of its own. This differentiation is immediately recognisable in the design of the new car, but it also makes its presence felt in terms of performance. The BMW 2-Series Coupe is an even more eye-catching creation than its predecessor, the resoundingly successful BMW 1-Series Coupe (of which more than 150,000 units have been sold worldwide). As well as a standalone appearance and increased dimensions, there is also greater depth to its product substance in terms of both technology and standard equipment. The result is a new dimension in driving dynamics, aesthetic appeal and premium allure in the compact segment, highlighted by the "2" in the new car's model designation. The number 2 has denoted the presence of a supremely sporting driving experience in a compact two-door car for over 45 years - ever since the introduction of the BMW 02 range.

BMW model family celebrates the premiere of another new model series - BMW 2-Series Coupe raises the bar in the premium compact segment in terms of dynamic ability, aesthetic appeal and emotional allure; a distinctive vehicle concept unique in its segment, with a two-door body in classic three-box design typical of BMW Coupes, four seats, rear-wheel drive and an engine range and chassis set-up focused squarely on sporting ability.

This is not the first time that BMW has treated the compact segment to its customary brand of driving pleasure. The BMW 1-Series, for example, has fulfilled this role for almost 10 years now, its standout position among its rivals rooted most prominently in its rear-wheel-drive concept (still a unique proposition in this class), powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a compelling premium character. And now the BMW 2-Series Coupe takes the levels of driving pleasure on offer in a compact model to even greater heights. The new two-door cuts a particularly impressive figure with its distinctive body design, a range of extremely powerful engines and specially configured chassis technology.

Characteristic features of a BMW Coupe
The specific vehicle concept behind the BMW 2-Series Coupe - unique in its segment - is faithfully reflected in its body design. The two-door model is first and foremost a Coupe from the BMW brand, and the design features that identify a member of this special breed - a three-box body with clearly defined boot and low-slung silhouette, a long bonnet, doors with frameless windows and a dynamically stretched roofline flowing smoothly into the rear end - are carried over into a compact model with greater enthusiasm and intent than ever. The ultra-sporty driving characteristics of the BMW 2-Series Coupe - generated by a hand-picked selection of engines and chassis technology tuned to make the perfect pairing - are thus unambiguously expressed in the design of the exterior. The 135 kW/184 hp four-cylinder engine in the BMW 220i Coupe is making its debut in a compact BMW model, and the 240 kW/326 hp six-cylinder in-line engine under the bonnet of the BMW M235i Coupe earns it top billing as the most powerful petrol driven member of the BMW M Performance Automobile line-up.

The specific proportions of the BMW 2-Series Coupe are contained within a body measuring 4,432 millimetres in length. The two-door model is therefore 108 millimetres longer than the BMW 1-Series and 72 millimetres longer than the outgoing BMW 1-Series Coupe. The new compact Coupe is also 32 millimetres wider than its predecessor (at 1,774 millimetres), and has a 30-millimetre longer wheelbase (2,690 millimetres) and wider tracks (front: 1,521 millimetres, +41 millimetres; rear: 1,556 millimetres, +43 millimetres). At the same time the vehicle height has been lowered by 5 millimetres to 1,418 millimetres. The result is an increase in interior space and 20 litres of extra boot capacity (now 390 litres). Added to which, the BMW 2-Series Coupe also boasts more efficient aerodynamics than both the BMW 1-Series and its predecessor, as reflected in a Cd of 0.29 for the BMW 220i Coupe.

Sporting tradition on a compact footprint
The BMW 2-Series Coupe builds on the brand's tradition of compact models offering a satisfying degree of driver engagement. And the presence of the 2 in the model designation creates a close link to this heritage. The introduction in 1966 of the BMW 1600-2, for instance, opened up a whole new vehicle segment. Inspired most profoundly by its precisely tailored package of powertrain and chassis technology, the two-door Coupe became a global standard-bearer for sporty handling and intense driving pleasure in the compact car segment. Additional engine variants increased the appeal of the new model series. For example, the BMW 2002 presented in 1968 took centre stage - in terms of both popularity and its success in turning "Freude am Fahren" (Sheer Driving Pleasure) from a slogan into an experience for whole new target groups. The most spectacular variant was the 125 kW/170 hp BMW 2002 turbo - the first model from a European manufacturer to gain the services of a turbocharger.

The design: Strong character cuts a distinctive figure
An instantly beguiling blend of sporting prowess and elegance marks out the design of BMW Coupes. And the exterior features which are such a key element of this identity have been carried over to the compact segment car with greater purpose than ever for the BMW 2-Series Coupe. The proportions, lines and surface design of the car have all been tailored to accentuate both the agile driving properties of the two-door and its unique appearance. The BMW 2-Series Coupe has its own specific design language, which secures it a stand-out position in the brand's model range and - most importantly - sets it apart unmistakably from its segment rivals.

Sporting presence, muscular agility and assured elegance come together in the exterior design of the BMW 2-Series Coupe. Defining elements of its interior, meanwhile, include the driver-focused cockpit design you expect of a BMW and a light and contemporary brand of functionality. The car's more clearly distinguished design identity illustrates its progress in moving the game on from its predecessor. The BMW 2-Series Coupe embodies Sheer Driving Pleasure in more concentrated and intense form than ever before in the premium compact segment.

Classical BMW features and a fresh interpretation of traditional Coupe elements

The individual vehicle concept of the BMW 2-Series Coupe is underlined by its specific front and rear end design, dynamically stretched lines and an almost 11-centimetre increase in body length over the BMW 1-Series. Characteristic design elements of a BMW Coupe have been carried over into the compact segment and signature brand features given a fresh twist.

Another stand-out feature of BMW Coupes - the hallmark three-box body structure with a clear distinction between roofline and boot - has a particularly clear presence in the new compact model. Like the side swage lines that wrap around into the rear end, this feature picks up on characteristic styling elements of the BMW 02, drawing a link between the new car and the brand's long tradition of sporting and agile compact models.

Lines tapering down dynamically towards the BMW kidney grille lend the front end of the BMW 2-Series Coupe a forward-surging presence. The modified contours of the headlight units narrow at their inner extremes, while a standard accent strip - or, if the optional bi-xenon lights are fitted, an LED accent light - cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin circular lights. The BMW kidney grille, which is separated from the headlights by narrow strips on either side, protrudes clearly from the front of the car and slants forward at a slight angle. The three-dimensional design of the grille surround and its 11 vertical bars reinforce the car's striking appearance. The lower air intake is split into three sections. The two outer elements are particularly large and their outlines replicate the form of the headlight units. Air Curtains are integrated harmoniously into an additional section at the outer edges of the front apron and channel the onrushing air precisely behind the front side panels, causing it to hang over the wheels like a curtain. This reduces turbulence and further enhances the outstanding aerodynamics of the BMW 2-Series Coupe.

The side view of the BMW 2-Series Coupe sees signature brand features like a long bonnet, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment, Hofmeister kink (the counter-swing in the window frame at the trailing edge of the C-pillars) and door openers integrated into the swage line blending with coupe-specific design elements, chief among them the slim window graphic and sweeping roofline gliding back smoothly into the rear end. A prominent character line above the door sill sweeps up rearwards of the B-pillar into the rear wheel arch, whose powerfully flared form focuses the mind on the car's rear-wheel drive and swells the BMW 2-Series Coupe's body to its broadest point. The dynamic wedge shape of the two-door model is emphasised, too, by the door sill line itself, which likewise rises up towards the rear. The BMW 2-Series Coupe also has doors with frameless windows and turn signal indicators integrated into the exterior mirrors.

The rear of the BMW 2-Series Coupe is a broad and powerful affair, an impression reinforced by the single-piece light units reaching far into the car's flanks in the L-shape familiar from other BMW models. An unmistakable night design is provided by the likewise L-shaped LED rear light strips within the units. The third brake light positioned at the upper edge of the rear window is also fed by LED units.

The lines along the sides of the boot lid taper downwards slightly. This styling cue, along with the additional crease and suggested diffuser element in the rear apron, accentuates the BMW 2-Series Coupe's road focus and low centre of gravity. And yet the new car also has a wider boot aperture than its predecessor.

The exterior paintwork of the BMW 2-Series Coupe can be ordered in a choice of two non-metallic and 10 metallic shades, while customers can also specify Estoril Blue metallic as part of the M Sport package.

Interior: cockpit design ensures maximum driving pleasure; premium ambience can be enjoyed from four seats

The dominant themes of the BMW 2-Series Coupe's interior are the driver-focused design of the cockpit, contemporary functionality and high-quality materials. An Easy Entry function for the front seats facilitates access to the two rear seats, which offer 21 millimetres more legroom than the outgoing Coupe, while headroom for the driver and front passenger has grown by a similar extent. Functionality levels are raised another notch by features including large storage compartments in the doors. The structure of the surfaces for the instrument panel, centre console and door trim is dominated by the "layering" effect created by various overlapping surfaces. The length of the doors is emphasised by the converging lines of the door trim elements.

If the BMW 2-Series Coupe is fitted with an optional navigation system or the BMW Professional radio, it will also feature the BMW iDrive operating system, which includes a freestanding onboard monitor in flatscreen design. The Control Display comes in 6.5 or 8.8-inch form, depending on the version specified, while the Controller on the centre console has a touch-sensitive surface which allows the driver to input characters (if the Navigation system Professional is fitted).

Dakota leather trim is available as an alternative to the standard cloth seat surfaces in a choice of three colours. The interior trim strips come in matt Satin Silver as standard but are also optionally available in brushed aluminium or Fineline Stream exquisite wood.

Serving the cause of individual style: BMW Sport Line, BMW Modern Line and the M Sport package

The BMW Lines - available as an alternative to standard specification for the BMW 2-Series Coupe - offer harmoniously coordinated exterior and interior design and equipment features. Both the BMW Sport Line and BMW Modern Line include 17-inch light-alloy wheels in exclusive designs, ambient lighting with variable use of colours and special seat upholstery, interior trim strip and car key designs. BMW Sport Line brings a high-gloss black finish for the outer air intake surrounds, the front of the kidney grille bars, the cross rib in the centre air intake and the rear apron, emphasising the dynamic credentials of the two-door newcomer. And BMW Modern Line serves the cause of progressive elegance through the use of matt aluminium for the design elements mentioned above and a body-coloured paint finish for the cross rib in the centre air intake.

Also available from the launch of the BMW 2-Series Coupe is the M Sport package developed specially for the new model. This option comprises bespoke suspension tuning (including a 10-millimetre drop in ride height and 17-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design), aerodynamically optimised body elements (including large front air intakes, striking side skirts and a diffuser for the rear apron), plus a special design for the BMW kidney grille and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in high-gloss chrome. In addition to aluminium door sill strips bearing the M logo, features such as sports seats for the driver and front passenger, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim strips with an accent strip in Estoril Blue, a special dial design for the instrument cluster, ambient lighting and an M driver's footrest also combine to bring an intense aura of sporty driving to the interior of the BMW 2-Series Coupe.

The driving experience: A perfect balance of agility, efficiency and comfort

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology ensures an unbeatable balance between driving pleasure and fuel economy in both the petrol and the diesel engines available from launch for the BMW 2-Series Coupe. Output is up by as much as 10 kW over the new car's predecessor, yet average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle has dropped by up to 21 per cent, depending on the model. The specially assembled engine line-up for the BMW 2-Series Coupe, the advanced chassis technology tuned precisely to the engine output on offer and the rear-wheel-drive configuration unique in its segment provide a sporty driving experience beyond the reach of any rival, combined with outstanding comfort. Added to which, the standard Driving Experience Control switch gives drivers the option - at the touch of a button - of adjusting the car's set-up to their individual preferences or the driving situation at hand.

One four-cylinder petrol engine and one four-cylinder diesel unit are available from launch, putting 135 kW/184 hp at the disposal of the BMW 220i Coupe and BMW 220d Coupe. Joining them centre stage, with a six-cylinder in-line engine developing 240 kW/326 hp, is the BMW M235i Coupe (see chapter 5). And following hot on the heels of that trio are two more four-cylinder diesel models in the form of the BMW 218d Coupe (105 kW/143 hp) and BMW 225d Coupe (160 kW/218 hp). All the engines can be combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox (standard in the BMW 225d Coupe) for fuel consumption and emissions figures that are even lower than those achieved with the standard six-speed manual gearbox. All model variants come with extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology as standard and meet the stipulations of the EU6 exhaust standard.

BMW 220i Coupe: efficient power from 2.0-litre displacement
The engine powering the BMW 220i Coupe sources significantly higher output from its 2.0-litre displacement than the four-cylinder petrol units available for the BMW 1-Series range. The driver can rely on the services of 135 kW/184 hp between 5,000 and 6,250 rpm and peak torque of 270 Newton metres (199 lb-ft), which is on tap between 1,250 and 4,500 rpm. The engine makes for a compelling proposition thanks to a familiar BMW appetite for revs, an impressive level of efficiency and - courtesy of a modified piston construction - optimised acoustic properties. Its BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package comprises a twin-scroll turbocharging system, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft control.

The BMW 220i Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph in 7.0 seconds on the way to a top speed of 235 km/h / 146 mph (automatic: 230 km/h / 143 mph). The average fuel consumption of the BMW 220i Coupe stands at between 6.1 and 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres / 46.3 - 44.8 mpg imp (automatic: 5.7 - 6.0 litres / 49.6 - 47.1 mpg imp), while its CO2 emissions come in at between 142 and 148 grams per kilometre (134 - 139 g/km; figures are calculated according to the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified). As these figures confirm, the BMW 220i Coupe's 10 kW increase in output over its predecessor has been complemented by a drop in fuel consumption of up to 14 per cent.

BMW 220d Coupe: high on torque, low in emissions
A turbocharger with variable inlet geometry and common rail direct injection, whose solenoid valve injectors employ maximum pressure of 1,800 bar, are the key features of the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine technology in the BMW 220d Coupe. This enables the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine to match instantaneous pulling power with extremely efficient combustion. Maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp is available at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 380 Newton metres (280 lb-ft) comes on stream between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm.

Fitted with the standard manual gearbox, the BMW 220d Coupe dashes from 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph in 7.2 seconds (7.1 seconds with the optional automatic). Top speed stands at 230 km/h / 143 mph with either gearbox. The output of the BMW 220d Coupe is 5 kW higher than that of its predecessor, yet it records even lower fuel consumption and emissions. Average fuel economy stands at 4.5 - 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres / 62.8 - 58.9 mpg imp (automatic: 4.2 - 4.4 litres / 67.3 - 64.2 mpg imp), CO2 emissions are 119-125 grams per kilometre (111 - 117 g/km; figures are calculated according to the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified). Cars fitted with the optional eight-speed automatic gearbox achieve the largest reduction in fuel consumption, of around 21 per cent.

Customers can order their BMW 220d Coupe from launch with a BMW M Performance Power Kit from the Original BMW Accessories range. This kit lifts engine output by 12 KW and increases peak torque by 20 Newton metres (15 lb-ft). Fuel consumption and emissions are unaffected by the resultant improvement in sprinting performance.

BMW 218d Coupe: economical diesel entry model
Further additions to the engine line-up include another two 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel units with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. A turbocharger with variable geometry and common rail direct injection, whose solenoid valve injectors fire fuel into the combustion chambers at up to 1,600 bar, endow the engine in the BMW 218d Coupe with peak output of 105 kW/143 hp and maximum torque of 320 Newton metres (236 lb-ft). The entry-level diesel model needs 8.9 seconds (automatic: 8.6 seconds) to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph en route to a top speed of 213 km/h / 132 mph (213 km/h / 132 mph). The BMW 218d Coupe posts average fuel consumption of 4.3 - 4.5 litres (4.2 - 4.4 litres) per 100 kilometres / 64.9 - 62.8 (67.3 - 64.2) mpg imp and CO2 emissions of 114 - 119 grams per kilometre (111 - 117 g/km; all data are provisional, fuel consumption and emission figures are calculated according to the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified).

BMW 225d Coupe: sporty and efficient thanks to multi-stage turbocharging
Serving up output of 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 450 Newton metres (332 lb-ft), the engine in the BMW 225d Coupe is the most powerful diesel variant available for the new two-door model. Its two-stage turbocharging system consists of one large and one small turbocharger, also with variable geometry, whose precisely controlled interplay ensures instantaneous pulling power. The piezo injectors of its common rail direct injection system generate maximum pressure of 2,000 bar. The BMW 225d Coupe is fitted as standard with the eight-speed automatic gearbox and sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h / 62 mph in 6.3 seconds. Top speed is 242 km/h / 150 mph. With average fuel consumption of 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres / 60.1 mpg imp and CO2 emissions of 124 grams per kilometre, the sportiest diesel model in the line-up also achieves outstanding efficiency (all data are provisional, fuel consumption and emission figures are calculated according to the EU test cycle).

Sports automatic with Launch Control, ECO PRO mode with coasting function
As well as the eight-speed automatic gearbox, the BMW 2-Series Coupe can also be ordered as an option with a Sports automatic, which uses ultra-fast gear changes to underline the dynamic character of the two-door car. This gearbox variant likewise comes with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel and a Launch Control function (not available for 218d), which enables traction-optimised, dynamically maximised acceleration off the line. All the 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph acceleration figures for the automatic variants of the BMW 2-Series Coupe were recorded using Launch Control.

The standard-fitted Driving Experience Control switch on the centre console allows the car's set-up to be adjusted at the touch of a button through COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO settings. SPORT+ mode is also available for cars equipped with at least one of the following options: Sports automatic gearbox, M Sport package, BMW Sport Line, Adaptive M suspension or variable sport steering. The Driving Experience Control switch can also be used to modify the car's accelerator mapping and steering characteristics as well as - depending on specification - the responses of the automatic gearbox and dampers.

In ECO PRO mode the car encourages a particularly relaxed as well as frugal driving style. And BMW 2-Series Coupe drivers also reap the benefits of the latest addition to the fuel-saving arsenal - the coasting function, available in conjunction with an automatic gearbox. At speeds between 50 and 160 km/h (approx. 30 and 100 mph), the powertrain is disengaged as soon as the driver takes his or her foot off the accelerator. If the Navigation system Professional is specified, drivers also enjoy the services of the Proactive Driving Assistant. In ECO PRO mode this system alerts drivers to the ideal fuel-saving moment to take their foot off the gas ahead of corners, junctions, roundabouts and speed-restricted areas.

The standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technology also includes Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand operation of ancillary units, Electric Power Steering, an Optimum Shift Indicator and the Auto Start Stop function, which can also be used in conjunction with an automatic gearbox.

Advanced chassis technology tuned precisely to the engine's output
The advanced chassis engineering of the BMW 2-Series Coupe includes elements such as a double-joint spring strut front axle with suspension struts and anti-roll bars, and a five-link rear axle. The chassis has a large aluminium content and has been adapted specially to suit the output of the engine fitted. This allows the driver to fully exploit the dynamic potential of the new Coupe, to which a low centre of gravity, a much wider track compared to its predecessor and ideal 50 : 50 weight distribution make key contributions. The Electric Power Steering system is as impressively energy efficient as it is accurate and, like the powerful brakes, enhances the car's precise handling characteristics. This creates an eye-catching and harmonious blend of sporting agility and ride comfort in everyday driving.

Variety of options to tailor the car's handling to personal preference: Servotronic, variable sport steering, M Sport braking system, Adaptive M suspension, M Sport suspension

A wealth of different options allow the handling characteristics of the BMW 2-Series Coupe to be adapted precisely to individual preferences. As well as Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance for the steering, customers can also specify variable sport steering, which employs a variable ratio for the steering rack to reduce the steering movement required to achieve large degrees of wheel turn. Parking and turning-off manoeuvres are completed safely and comfortably with little steering effort. And at higher speeds drivers can also look forward to the steering precision and straightline stability for which BMW is renowned.

If the M Sport package is specified, customers can also order their car with the M Sport braking system with fixed callipers, four pistons at the front wheels and two pistons at the rear, and particularly large brake discs. The callipers are painted dark blue and carry the M logo. Another item available from the Original BMW Accessories range is the BMW M Performance braking system with even larger, perforated and riveted discs and callipers painted in either red, orange or yellow.

The selection of optional equipment includes Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and M Sport suspension with extra-stiff spring and damper settings. Both set-ups come with a 10-millimetre reduction in ride height. The BMW M Performance sports suspension (also available from the Accessories range) goes a step further still, offering customers a 20-millimetre drop in ride height, bespoke dampers and shorter, red-painted coil springs for their BMW 2-Series Coupe from launch.

The standard-fitted DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system comes complete with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC). These tools are complemented by Brake Assist, Fading Compensation, the Brake Drying function and Start-Off Assistant. In DTC mode, the response thresholds of the driving stability system are set at a higher level. This allows the driver to make use of controlled slip through the driven wheels to pull away on snow or loose surfaces and when taking a particularly dynamic approach to cornering. In DSC Off mode, the Active Differential Brake (ADB-Sport) on the rear axle is activated. Here, a carefully calculated degree of braking force is applied to a spinning driven wheel under acceleration through tight bends, so that drive can still be channelled through the other wheel on the axle and traction levels optimised.

The BMW 225d Coupe is fitted with 17-inch light-alloy wheels as standard. All other model variants will roll off the assembly line on 16-inch light-alloy wheels. The options list also contains additional 17 and 18-inch light-alloy wheel variants, while 19-inch BMW M Performance forged light-alloy wheels can be specified via the Accessories range.

Body, safety and equipment: Intelligent lightweight design, smart details

The development of the BMW 2-Series Coupe has seen significant progress made in terms of spaciousness, functionality and occupant protection compared with its predecessor. The new car's larger dimensions benefit both interior space and boot capacity. At the same time, even higher standards of passive safety have been achieved thanks to optimised material selection and innovative body construction technology, while weight has been minimised. The BMW 2-Series Coupe also includes a number of innovative pedestrian protection measures.

Its broader spread of standard equipment is another aspect of the new model that clearly sets it apart from the BMW 1-Series. And the BMW 2-Series Coupe can also be specified with a host of high-quality options that underline its premium character.

Intelligent lightweight design optimises agility and safety. The construction techniques and materials used for the body of the BMW 2-Series Coupe are underpinned by the principle of intelligent lightweight design. This approach allows agility and occupant protection to be enhanced while keeping the car's weight as low as possible. For example, the increased rigidity of the car's front end has a direct effect on the dynamic properties of the BMW 2-Series Coupe.

Measures such as considered use of high and ultra-high-tensile steels lend the body increased torsional stiffness and ensure the strength of the safety passenger cell. The mean strength of the materials used in the new Coupe is 13 per cent higher than was the case in its predecessor.

All-embracing concept for occupant and pedestrian protection
The precise interplay of numerous safety components as part of a far-reaching overall concept guarantees an impressively high level of occupant protection in situations where a collision is unavoidable. This means the BMW 2-Series Coupe has everything it needs to achieve outstanding ratings in all the relevant crash tests around the world.

Extremely durable supporting structures, large deformation zones and highly efficient restraint systems coordinated by powerful control electronics form the basis for the high standard of passive safety in the new BMW 2-Series Coupe. The forces generated in a collision are diverted via precisely defined load paths, absorbed in the deformation zones and thus kept away from the extremely rigid passenger cell. In addition, further developed load path design optimises compatibility when it comes to minimising the consequences of accidents for other vehicles involved.

Added to which, wide-ranging measures have been implemented in the development of the BMW 2-Series Coupe as far as pedestrian protection is concerned. Relocating the intake air duct for the engine plus the air filter for the interior allowed the creation of a larger deformation zone in the bonnet area. The BMW 2-Series Coupe has also been designed with an "active" bonnet system: in the event of a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist, the system automatically raises the rear part of the bonnet. This creates additional deformation capacity, and the risk of injury in a collision with particularly unyielding sections of the engine is reduced.

The safety equipment fitted as standard in the BMW 2-Series Coupe includes front airbags, side airbags integrated into the seat backrests, head airbags for the front and rear seats, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all seats, belt force limiters and belt tensioners in the front, and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear. The standard-fitted Tyre Defect Indicator registers a loss of pressure in individual tyres and warns the driver by activating a signal in the instrument cluster.

Comfortable entry and more legroom in the rear compartment
The BMW 2-Series Coupe is significantly larger than its predecessor in terms of exterior length, width, wheelbase and track width. These increased dimensions are evident in areas such as headroom in the front seats, which has grown by 19 millimetres, and rear-seat legroom, which is up by 21 millimetres. In addition, the access space through to the rear is now 11 millimetres larger which, when combined with the standard Easy Entry function for the front seats, means that using the rear seats is a significantly more comfortable experience.

The boot of the BMW 2-Series Coupe has grown by 20 litres and now offers 390 litres of capacity. The width of the tailgate aperture between the rear lights is 38 millimetres greater than that offered by the outgoing Coupe. And the standard 60 : 40 split/folding rear seat bench ensures additional variability when it comes to making maximum use of the car's load-carrying potential. A three-section split rear seat backrest can also be specified as an option, its individual elements folding either together or individually with a 40 : 20 : 40 split. With large door pockets, a roomy glove compartment, two cupholders in the centre console and a storage compartment under the armrest, the BMW 2-Series Coupe also offers increased stowage capacity inside the passenger compartment. The lower section of the door trim offers space for drinks bottles up to one litre in size, the optional storage package includes features such as cargo nets on the back of the front seats and securing lugs and nets in the boot, and a trailer coupling with removable hitch ball can be ordered for all model variants of the BMW 2-Series Coupe with the exception of the BMW M235i Coupe.

Standard equipment includes automatic climate control and the Driving Experience Control switch

As well as remote central locking, height adjustment for the driver's and front passenger seat, the BMW Business radio with CD player, six loudspeakers and an AUX-in socket, standard equipment for the BMW 2-Series Coupe also includes the Driving Experience Control switch - which allows the driver to adjust the suspension set-up as desired - and automatic climate control. Among the items on the options list are electrically adjustable and heated seats, a multifunction steering wheel, automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors, front foglamps, an electrically operated glass roof and Comfort Access.

If specified with the BMW Professional radio (standard in the BMW M235i Coupe) or a navigation system, the car will also be fitted with the iDrive operating system. With the Navigation system Professional on board, iDrive brings with it an 8.8-inch Control Display and a Touch Controller with touch-sensitive surface which allows the driver to input characters. Among the equipment available to fulfil individual communication and entertainment requirements are a hands-free system complete with USB socket, a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) receiver and the Harman Kardon HiFi system.

BMW ConnectedDrive in the BMW 2-Series Coupe: Connectivity with added variety

The range of standard and optional equipment available via BMW ConnectedDrive ensures the BMW 2-Series Coupe occupies a leading position when it comes to the intelligent link-up of the driver, car and outside world. BMW ConnectedDrive offers a selection of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services designed to optimise comfort, safety and the use of infotainment functions. Among the driver assistance systems available for the first time in a compact model from BMW are the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and optional Driving Assistant. The optional ConnectedDrive Services provide an optimised platform for using telephone and internet-based services, while a range of other innovative functions can be integrated into the car's operating system via apps.

Driver assistance systems enhance comfort and safety. The range of BMW ConnectedDrive features available for the BMW 2-Series Coupe includes a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation. If the optional bi-xenon headlights are specified, the two-door model can also be equipped with Adaptive Headlights including cornering light, variable headlight distribution and adaptive headlight range control for city and motorway driving. Customers can also order their car with the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant. This function allows the main beam light to be left on even if traffic is approaching from the opposite direction. The headlights are partially masked as and when required in order to prevent other road users from being dazzled as they approach.

Other features available for the BMW 2-Series Coupe are Cruise Control with braking function and the Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display. Park Distance Control and the rear view camera, which displays its images on the iDrive operating system's Control Display, help to ensure precise and comfortable manoeuvring. The likewise optional Parking Assistant aids the driver in choosing and making use of parking spaces parallel to the road. The system identifies suitable spaces and, if desired, carries out the steering movements required to park the car.

The innovative Driving Assistant option comprises the camera-based Lane Departure Warning and Collision Warning systems. The Lane Departure Warning system can be used at speeds over 70 km/h (43 mph) and alerts drivers with a visible signal in the instrument cluster and a vibration though the steering wheel rim if they have inadvertently drifted out of their lane. At speeds upwards of 15 km/h (9 mph), Collision Warning recognises if the distance to the vehicle travelling in front has become too small. As well as triggering visual and acoustic warnings, this system primes the brakes to help the driver achieve the shortest possible stopping distance if he or she has to intervene.

Internet-based services can be integrated into the car via apps
Innovative technologies also optimise the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones, as well as music players, into the car, including the use of internet-based services. The ConnectedDrive Services option lays the groundwork for in-car connectivity by means of a built-in SIM card. This allows customers to access the internet, the Concierge Service telephone-based information facility, remote functions, the BMW Online portal, the BMW ConnectedDrive range of online entertainment features, BMW TeleServices and the Intelligent Emergency Call function while inside the car.

Numerous other functions can also be integrated into the car at a later stage using apps - via a smartphone or the built-in SIM card. These include Real Time Traffic Information, web radio functions and use of social networking services such as Facebook and Twitter. The flexible app concept allows the integration both of applications developed by the BMW Group and of BMW Apps-ready applications from external providers. Looking forward, this will allow BMW drivers to seamlessly transfer numerous familiar functions into their car.